ibclogo XVI International Botanical Congess

Abstract Number: 2715
Poster No. = 1809


MADS-BOX GENES ACTIVE IN DEVELOPING POLLEN CONES OF NORWAY SPRUCE ARE HOMOLOGOUS TO THE B-CLASS FLORAL HOMEOTIC GENES IN ANGIOSPERMS


Sundström J, Carlsbecker A, Svensson M E, Svenson M, Engström P. EBC, Uppsala Univ., Sweden


We present three genes DAL11, DAL12 and DAL13 from Spruce, which are related to angiosperm B-class MADS-box genes, that determine the identities of petals and stamens. Specific expression of all three genes in developing pollen cones suggests involvement in one aspect of B function, the control of male organ development. DAL11, 12 and 13 expression overlaps with that of DAL2, related to the angiosperm C-class MADS-box genes that determine carpel identity and, in concert with B-genes specify stamens in the flower. Our results suggest that an interaction between B- and C-type genes is required for male organ development in conifers like in angiosperms, and that central components of the regulatory mechanisms for reproductive organ development are conserved among all seed plants.

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